Mtd Yardman Ride On Lawn Mower not Running Project??

This is our MTD YARDMAN ride on lawnmower, ***NOT RUNNING***  It hasn t been used since last summer and has been sitting out side with a tarpaulin over it. It definitely needs some tlc with a service. Had some problems with the belt that spins the cutter, in order for it to actually cut you had to go really slow over the grass. The grass easily sticks in the tube so you would have to pull the grass out of it.  If you were to put a new battery in it, it should start, and actually go forward. I m not sure what else is wrong with it as I I m not a mechanic! But if you were to go too fast it would over heat quickly and smoke would come out the engine and yes the outer shell has been sprayed black. If you have any questions please message me or give me a call on 07817109928. Happy bidding!